Washington - The United States has voiced approval for India's decision to launch a high-level investigation into allegations involving an Indian official in a thwarted plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist on American soil. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed support, stating,
"The government announced today that it was conducting an investigation, and that's good and appropriate, and we look forward to seeing the results." This comes in response to charges filed by US federal prosecutors against Indian national Nikhil Gupta and an unnamed Indian official implicated in the foiled plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American and Canadian citizen.
While speaking to reporters in Tel Aviv, Israel, Blinken refrained from divulging details, citing the ongoing legal nature of the case. However, he underscored the gravity of the situation, revealing direct discussions with the Indian Government in recent weeks. Simultaneously, the White House commended India for initiating its investigation, assuring that this development would not adversely impact the India-US relationship.
John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, emphasized, "These allegations in this investigation, (we) take it very seriously," underscoring the US commitment to ensuring accountability for those responsible.
Kirby clarified that India remains a strategic partner, and the ongoing investigation does not detract from collaborative efforts to strengthen the bilateral relationship. He highlighted the significance of maintaining and enhancing the strategic partnership with India despite the serious nature of the allegations.